Things to do on a Weekend Trip to Corfu Town
Known as the greenest of all the Greek Islands, Corfu is my definition of Heaven on Earth.
Corfu charms the Ionian Sea, just off the North West coast of mainland Greece and about an hour flight from Athens. Fancy a day trip to Albania? You can cruise over on a ferry in about an hour. The Island has something to offer for every type of traveler. If you love adventure try the different hikes around the island or even spelunking! Want a chill vacation on the beach? The island boasts more than 130 miles of pristine coastline with crystal clear water. The best part is that you have your pick of beaches ranging from cliffside to sandy and everything in between. If you’re more into arts & culture, then you’ll love visiting all of the little villages throughout the island and especially Corfu Town.
View of Faliraki Beach and Vido Island from The Old Fortress
Old Fortress of Corfu
The Old Fortress was constructed in 1545, when Corfu was still under Venetian rule, although the sites history dates back much further. You can explore the tunnels, towers, and turrets of the fortress itself as well as visit the other sites on the peninsula. Some of the other sights include the chapel of Madonna del Carmine which often houses art exhibitions and the Church of Saint George which was built by the Venetians in the Doric style of an ancient temple. Some of the buildings built on the peninsula while under British rule are now used as government buildings, a public library, and the Ionian University Music Department (if you’re lucky someone may be practicing a music piece while you pass by). On the North side of the peninsula you can walk through Corfu Sailing Club and admire the different boats docked there. The highest point of the peninsula affords spectacular views of Corfu Old Town to the East and mainland Greece to the West, with plenty dazzling blue water between. You can visit the Old Fortress daily from 8AM-8PM for 3€ per adult.
Holy Church of Saint Spyridon
The Church of Saint Spyridon is the most famous church in Corfu, and rightfully so. The single-nave basilica has the tallest bell tower in the Ionian Islands. Inside the church you can admire the Greek Orthodox iconography of the altar. There are stained glass windows scattered throughout the church. Saint Spyridon is the patron saint of Corfu and is often referred to as “The Keeper of the City” regarding his miracles of saving the city on multiple occasions from plague and conquer. You can view his tomb in a small room to the right of the altar. Please be respectful and keep in mind when visiting the basilica that all photography is prohibited. It was unfortunate to see how many tourists disregarded the many signs and vocal warnings about this.
Spianada Square & Boschetto Garden
The largest square in all of Greece is the Spianada Square built by the Venetians. The Spianada and Boschetto Gardens are the gateway between the Old Fortress and Old Town. A walk through the square will charm you with monuments, gorgeous plant life, and ocean views.
New Venetian Fortress
Opposite Corfu Old Town from the Old Fortress sits the New Venetian Fortress atop the San Marcos hill. The best view of Corfu Town is at the top of the fort. You can visit the fort for free from 8:30AM-3:30PM any day of the week except Tuesdays.
Faliraki Beach
Just North of Spianada square you can find Faliraki Beach. Here you can take a dip in the crystal clear Ionian water while admiring views of the Old Fortress, right in Corfu’s Old Town. There are a few bars and restaurants right on the water where you can enjoy a drink and a meal after your swim!
